Irma becomes a hurricane over the eastern North Atlantic

NOAA Satellite image Hurricane Irma

NOAA Satellite image Hurricane Irma

Irma has intensified rapidly and is now a Hurricane with max winds to 85 knots as it moves WNW at about 9 knots. Hurricane force winds are estimated to extend outward 10-15 NM on the east side of the circulation. The forecast track takes Irma over somewhat cooler ocean temperatures, however, max winds could still reach or exceed 100 knots. In a few days, the hurricane will be moving over warmer waters again so additional strengthening is likely.

Irma is forecast to track westward or west-southwestward for several days before turning back towards the west-northwest.  Irma will likely threaten the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico as a major hurricane next Wednesday and Thursday and eventually could threaten Cuba, the Bahamas and Florida thereafter.

NOAA NHC Hurricane Irma forecast track

NOAA NHC Hurricane Irma forecast track

About Fred Pickhardt

I am a marine meteorologist and sailed briefly with American Export Lines in the Far East trade after graduating from State University of New York Maritime College. I have extensive experience in weather analysis, weather forecasting, optimum ship routing, vessel performance evaluations and forensic weather event reconstructions. I founded Ocean Weather Services and as Owner and Chief Consultant currently provide optimum ship routing services and forensic marine weather reports to the maritime industry.
This entry was posted in Ocean Storms, Tropical Cyclones and tagged , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *